Being located along the main Galle Road, the road that connects Colombo and Galle, just after the Kalutara Bridge, it is one of those attractions one just not misses. Every year thousands of devotees visit this sight and thousands of non-Buddhists also visits simply to see its exquisite beauty.
The Kalutra Bodhiya was built during the 1960s and what is most amazing and what sets it apart from other temples in the country is its three storey high shrine, also known as the Gangathilaka Viharaya, which is hollow inside. It is actually the only stupa, or shrine, in the world that is hollow inside and in the case of the Kalutara Bodhiya one can explore the inside of the stupa which is decorated with murals from ancient folk tales depicting the previous lives of Lord Buddha. Inside one can also view the amazingly beautiful gilded statue of Lord Buddha.
Historically this sight is significant as the Bo Tree (the sacred three of the Buddhist religion) at the sight was planted during the 2nd century BC, coinciding with the arrival of the religion in the country and planting of the main Bo Tree in Anuradhapura during the same time. Due to the maritime provinces of the country being under the Portuguese, and subsequently under the Dutch, the site where the sacred Bo Tree was planted was neglected for several centuries. Actually the sight was used by both the Portuguese and the Dutch as forts. So it was after the country gaining its independence in 1948 that efforts could be made to bring back its fame.
Visitors to this coastal town of Kalutara can also visit various other attractions in the area: fishing villages, Richmond Castle, just to name a few. As for lodging options the coastal area is famous for accommodation options along the beach and beach resorts Sri Lanka Kalutara, budget hotels, and hotels with easy access to the beach are much in demand during the season. For a hotel in Kalutara with all possible luxury amenities and facilities, along with easy access to many attractions around the city try the Avani Kalutara Resort.
